The Global Women for Quality and Sustainable Development Initiative (GWSD) in collaboration with Infinite Academy, on Tuesday embarked on sensitisation and enlightenment campaign at Ekiosa Market relocated to Iguodala Primary School on Murtala Mohammed Way, Benin City.

The Executive Director, Infinite Academy, Isoken Odemwingie urged traders to adhere strictly to government's directives regarding the precautionary measures to curtail the spread of coronavirus.

Odemwingie appealed to the traders both in Bini language and pidgin to comply with all safety measures against the deadly virus.

"Use facemask always and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Observe social distancing and avoid handshakes. Wash your hands frequently with any type of soap under running water or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Cover your mouth and nose with tissue or bent elbow when sneezing and/or coughing. Discard the tissue properly", he advised.

On his part, GWSD Programme Officer, Comrade Ehis Agugu charged the traders to support government and medical practitioners in their efforts to keep Edo people safe as coronavirus is not a joking matter but an issue that must be taking seriously.

Looking at the rise in Gender Based Violence, Agugu disclosed that there are several people suffering today, not as victims of the coronavirus itself, but because of the domestic and sexual violence they are exposed to as a result of the stay home to stay safe policy. Records have shown that many victims of sexual and domestic violence do not speak up.

The Programme Officer said: "If you're currently suffering any form of abuse or violence, know that you're not alone. We are here to support you. Please, speak up. Report to relevant authorities or call 09093113168 to seek help for you and your loved ones.

Facemasks were distributed to traders who deal in foodstuffs as trading was unimpeded having Police Officers and officials of Edo State Public Works Volunteers (PUWOV) Scheme on ground to ensure enforcement of the state government’s directives on proper washing of hands before customers were allowed into the market.

It was however observed that Iguodala Primary School (Ekiosa Market) have only one hand-washing station as the Rights group intend to increase the numbers because we have to survive as a people otherwise, we perish as individual. This is part of efforts to complement the Edo State Government's fight against the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).